I enjoyed a dinner course at the renowned restaurant, Respiracion, in Kanazawa. The entire experience lasted about two and a half hours. It was impressive how the meal was designed as an "experiential dining" that included not just the food, but also the ambiance, aromas, and flow of time.The interior is a calm space renovated from an old traditional house, where the warmth of wood and tranquility create a pleasant atmosphere. As soon as I entered, a gentle herbal aroma enveloped me. In the waiting area, I was offered a herbal tea towel, setting the stage for a sensory experience even before the meal began.The course progressed based on the attached menu, with each dish having a clear thematic concept. One dish that particularly stood out was the mountain vegetables. It featured slightly bitter ingredients like fuki no tou and shungiku, combined with elements from Latvia, creating a dish that transcended traditional Japanese boundaries. The balance of bitterness, aroma, and umami was exceptional, making it one of the highlights of the evening.Another highlight was a dish combining silk sweet potatoes, Asian black bear, and beef. The silk sweet potatoes were prepared as a foam, offering a delicate texture that lightly dissolved upon entering the mouth. In contrast, the Asian black bear and beef had a robust umami flavor, harmonizing beautifully without clashing. The combination of sweetness, richness, and wildness showcased the restaurant's unique creativity and skill.In between, there was a palate cleanser of tomato not listed on the menu, refreshing the flow of the meal. The final dish, white shrimp with arros meloso, was rich yet not overly heavy, providing a highly satisfying conclusion. The entire course, including the tea sweets, was meticulously crafted until the very end.After the meal, I received a gift of chopsticks and polvorón, allowing me to savor the aftertaste even after returning home, which was a delightful touch.Overall, the restaurant excels not only in the quality of its dishes but also in the design of the experience, including aromas and ambiance. It is a place I would love to enjoy slowly on a special occasion.
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